We will continue the Emmanuel tradition of blessing the animals in conjunction with St. Francis of Assisi Day.  We will bless pets following the 10 AM service on the labyrinth on October 5.

The Feast of St Francis of Assisi on October 4 each year. The feast commemorates the life of St Francis, who was born in the 12th century and is the patron saint of animals and the environment.

St Francis, who founded the Catholic Church’s Franciscan order, lived in Italy during the late 12th and 13th centuries. He is remembered for his generosity to the poor and his willingness to minister to the lepers. He is remembered for his love for animals and nature.  St Francis died at Portiuncula, Italy on October 4, 1226.

A more detailed history of St. Francis may be found here: http://satucket.com/lectionary/Francis_Assisi.htm